NEW PROGRESS IN CAMPAIGN ON INFECTED BLOOD SCANDAL

Penrith and The Border MP, Rory Stewart, has welcomed progress in the campaign to compensate victims of the contaminated blood scandal of the 1970s and 1980s, following his question to the Prime Minister in March – after which the Prime Minister issued a full apology – and following the publication of a five-year independent inquiry by Lord Penrose. The local MP welcomed the Prime Minister’s confirmation that £25 million had been made available for affected families, and that the House of Commons could expect a statement on the issue before the Summer recess.

Since 1988, Government has established a number of schemes to provide financial support to people affected by the tragedy. But despite various changes to the system in the intervening years, the families of those infected continue to hold on-going concerns and criticisms. The Penrose Inquiry is the latest investigation into the scandal, but with only three sitting days of parliament remaining before dissolution, government and MPs will not be in a position to fully consider and discuss the report until after the general election.

Rory Stewart said: “Progress is being made on this immensely sad and important issue, and affected families can expect to be strongly supported by this government. I was glad that the Prime Minister this week has reaffirmed his commitment to continuing to support all who have had their lives torn apart as a result of this tragedy, and thank him for his empathy in the matter.”

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